75 Senior Researcher jobs in South Africa

Company Description

Arden Group is a research-driven trading collective focused on capital markets of the internet era. We combine data, discipline, and market intuition to identify high-conviction opportunities across crypto, equities, and macro assets. Built by traders and backed by research, we are dedicated to finding the most promising investments in these areas.

Role Description

This is a full-time remote role for a Researcher at Arden Group. The Researcher will be responsible for conducting thorough market research, analyzing data, and developing insights into capital markets, including crypto, equities, and macro assets. The Researcher will collaborate with traders to identify high-potential investment opportunities and support the development of actionable strategies.

Qualifications

• Strong research, data analysis, and market analysis skills
• Proficiency in using research tools and software
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and remotely
• Experience in financial markets, including crypto, equities, or macro assets
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field
• High attention to detail and ability to handle large datasets

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

Search Strategy & Process

Participate / play a leading role in developing search strategies and source lists

Manage search timelines

Input into practice business development strategies, including yearly and half yearly strategy reports and overviews

Candidate Interaction

Take full responsibility on a search-by-search basis for mapping the market, sourcing and approaching, profiling candidates and preparing appropriate reports

Attend and conduct interviews, both for specific searches and speculatively

Liaise with and advise candidates throughout the search process

Take formal and informal references on behalf of consultant / head of practice

Develop on-going relationships with 'high flying' candidates

Client Interaction

Preparation of and participation in pitches with a head of practice / consultant

Business development support and participation through existing and new clients, and through involvement in events

Documentation

Lead, own and support the preparation of search strategy documents, candidate reports, client updates, job descriptions, references and pitch presentations

Building our company

Input information correctly into the database

Consistently build knowledge base in a documented and structured manner

Take an active role in improving internal processes

Share knowledge with other practices

Actively input into business development strategies

Expectation to be in involved in cross-practice search activity

Expectation to support other practices where help is needed

Contribute to the development of and writing of Weekend Editions when required

KEY SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

Adaptability

Demonstrate flexibility in a fast paced / pressurised environment

Project a positive demeanour regardless of changes in working conditions

Show the ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities without loss of composure

Thrive in a fast-paced environment; have high levels of energy, tenacity and focus

Organisation

Time Management: Determine the appropriate allocation of time

Space Management: Effectively manage the workspace (i.e. keeps a clean and organised office, appropriately handles all paperwork e.g. CVs / internal / external documents / invoices, etc., maintains control over the physical environment, etc.)

Task Management: Balance conflicting priorities in order to manage workflow, ensure the completion of essential projects and meet critical deadlines

Confident making nuanced judgements, prioritising time and effort

Acute attention to detail ensuring work is produced accurately and of the highest possible standard

Excellent time management skills, able to manage conflicting priorities and unforeseen change

Proactive

Demonstrate the ability to foresee problems and prevent them by taking action

Utilise analytical skills and a broad understanding of the business to effectively interpret and anticipate needs

Innate sense of urgency in everything you do

Communication Skills

Listening skills: Understand that the most important aspect of communication is the act of listening and actively works to improve those skills

Oral skills: Speak with confidence using clear, concise sentences and is easily understood

Written skills: Produces well thought-out, professional correspondence free of grammatical and spelling errors

Telephone / Email: Use high quality, professional oral and written skills to project a positive image of the business at all times

Client and Candidate Service

Interact professionally with clients, candidates and colleagues at all times

Promptly respond to requests with accuracy and a courteous demeanour

Business Understanding

Demonstrate an awareness of fundamental business principles as well as an understanding of the overall industry, ideally has worked for or currently in an Executive Search Consultancy or a similarly fast paced professional services firm

Possess integrity and ability to be discreet, trustworthy and completely reliable

Team Player

Work as a competent member of the team, willingly providing back-up support for co-workers when appropriate and actively supporting group goals

Computer / Technical Skills

Display proficiency using standard office equipment

Demonstrate advanced proficiency by quickly adapting to new technology and easily acquiring new technical skills

Judgment

Exhibit sound judgment and the ability to make reasonable decisions in the absence of direction

Swiftly refer problems / issues to the appropriate person(s) when necessary

Work effectively without constant and direct supervision or guidance from the Director

Intuitive; able to assess a situation and take initiative but also not be afraid to ask for help when required

Vacancy: Researcher
Department: Research
Contract: Permanent
Location: Western Cape - Stellenbosch
Job Purpose
Supporting trading team in analysis of historical data and weather-related info, crop modelling, building of presentations for different meetings, executing crop tours during season, updating every day excel sheets used for research and analysis.

Minimum Requirements

• At least 2-3 years' relevant work experience in a similar role would be advantageous.
• Degree in Agricultural Economics or related field.
• Experience in agriculture-related research or analysis is advantageous.

Key Performance Areas (KPA'S) For The Role

• Understanding weather and impact of it on crops (Soil moisture, rainfall, temperatures and crop health (VHI, NDVI)
• Updating of excel spread sheets (Producer Deliveries, Weather dB, Poultry industry sheets, Harvest/Planting Progress etc)
• Crop tour planning and execution
• Updating of SND as season progresses with new crop sizes
• Research on weather systems and events coming up in a season and reporting back on it
• Being able to present presentations regarding weather info and market/crop analysis
• Comparing weather models (ECM vs GFS)
• SSA Production and Demand Estimates: Detailed analysis on SSA countries to determine crop sizes for neighbouring production countries.
• SAF Commercial Demand Analysis: Detailed analysis on the SAF demand numbers used in the SnDs
• Key Client Interactions: Our market analysis and research to be presented to COFCO key clients by presentation as well as detailed emails in form of Flag Reports on a weekly basis.
• South Africa - Acreage & Production Estimates Edit: Key function in determining the Ha and Yields for the South African Crop on Maize, Soybeans, Sunflower and Wheat. This is based on Growth Model simulations as well as physical Crop tours to determine the Ha and Yield of SAF crop

Knowledge & Skills Required For The Role

• Microsoft office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Bilingual (Afrikaans and English)
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel regularly.
• Good work relationships and communication with colleagues
• Innovative thinking (Able to make plans and come up with new ideas)
• Efficient in Coding (Python)
• Background in Agronomy
• Efficient in Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
• Efficient in technical analysis

Competencies

• Analysing
• Writing and Reporting
• Applying Expertise and Technology
• Learning and Researching
• Relating and Networking
• Planning and Organising
• Presenting and Communicating
• Coping with Pressures and Setbacks

How To Apply
The company is offering a competitive salary with provident and medical benefits. Exciting incentive opportunities, a rewarding work environment, product and supply chain knowledge and career growth opportunities for the right candidate.

Interested parties should please submit a comprehensive CV and covering letter, outlining why you feel that you are best suited to the position on the COFCO Careers website by searching for vacancies in South Africa, clicking on the listed positions available, and following the prompts when clicking "Apply" on the job description, and answering all related questions in full to complete your application.

Only applications submitted direct on the COFCO Careers website will be considered.

If you do not hear from us within 14 days from date of application, please regard your application as unsuccessful. Only short-listed candidates will be moved through the Talent Pipeline and contacted. Cofco reserves the right to appoint in line with the employment equity plan.

The company will appoint in line with our employment equity plan.

Privacy Policy
By contacting COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd., you acknowledge and agree that COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd. has a legitimate business purpose to collect and process your personal information (as defined in Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 and any amendments thereto ("POPIA")) to review your personal information and to comply with its legal obligations. COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd will process your personal information in accordance with POPIA and in accordance with and the purposes described in COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd.'s privacy policy available at You hereby confirm that you have read, understood and agree with the terms of COFCO International South Africa (Pty) Ltd.'s privacy policy, and consent to the processing of your personal information.

Salary: R R30 000

We're seeking a driven and energetic Recruitment Researcher / Resourcer to join a leading UK-based executive search firm specialising in finance placements. This role is ideal for someone with 1–2 years of international recruitment experience, a bubbly personality, and a passion for working with people. You'll play a critical part in identifying and engaging top-tier candidates for high-level finance roles across the UK and Europe.

This is a fantastic opportunity to build your career in executive search while working alongside a supportive and high-performing team that values hard work, personality, and professionalism.

• Conduct targeted research to identify suitable candidates for finance roles in executive search assignments.
• Source candidates through LinkedIn, job boards, headhunting, and internal databases.
• Qualify candidates through engaging screening calls and interviews.
• Build and maintain talent pipelines for niche finance roles across investment banking, asset management, and private equity.
• Coordinate interviews and manage candidate communications throughout the recruitment lifecycle.
• Maintain accurate records on the ATS and support the delivery team with administrative tasks.
• Work closely with Consultants to understand client briefs and ensure a strong talent-culture fit.

• 1–2 years of international recruitment or resourcing experience, preferably in a fast-paced environment.
• Previous exposure to finance recruitment or executive search (desirable but not essential).
• A confident, bubbly, and enthusiastic personality with strong communication skills.
• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and driven to deliver results.
• Strong sourcing and research skills, particularly on LinkedIn.
• Comfortable working to targets and tight deadlines.
• Access to a laptop and reliable high-speed internet connection is essential.

1. Do you have at least 1 year of experience in international recruitment or resourcing?
2. Have you previously worked on finance or executive search roles?
3. Do you have access to a laptop and stable high-speed internet?

1. Can you walk us through a time you successfully sourced a difficult-to-find candidate?
2. How do you typically approach research for executive-level roles?
3. What methods do you use to keep candidates engaged throughout the recruitment process?
4. How do you handle pressure when working with multiple roles and deadlines?
5. What motivates you to work in the recruitment/executive search industry, especially in the finance space?

• Initiate, conduct, coordinate and manage research projects in compliance with set standards, client needs and specifications within budget and on time.
• Successful initiation/proposal and completion of research programmes/projects contained in the business plan of the Institute in line with the overall Corporate Program and Strategy of the ARC.
• Contribute to the image of the ARC through high quality research findings/products in compliance with expected scientific standards.
• Ensure well-customised technology transfer/training programs and effective transfer of technology and promotion in the form of products, services, literature, information days, courses and other events according to client needs.
• Ensure cost-effective maintenance and utilisation of infrastructure through optimal application, maintenance, and effective stock control for execution of research projects.
• Ensure that allocated budgets are managed in cost effective and proactive manner including timeous execution of financial administrative activities/tasks in compliance with the prescribed financial procedures and policies of the ARC.
• Actively source new research opportunities and write research proposals for funding.
• Disseminate research results as scientific peer reviewed publications, congress presentations, popular articles, presentations at industry information days and client reports.

• Mentorship of post graduate students.

• PhD in Nematology.

• At least 3 years experience in Plant Nematology in line with the division's strategic focus on pest identification and integrated pest management of nematode pests of grapevine and deciduous fruit.
• Proven record of peer-reviewed scientific publications.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an advantage.
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income for programme and projects in programme.
• Valid SA driver's license.

ENQUIRIES, DR RINUS KNOETZE TEL:

THE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS IS 04 NOVEMBER 2025

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.

SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.

Data Researcher / Lead Builder – 6-Week Contract

R1 800 – R2 000 per week · Weekly pay · 6-Week Contract

We're building a verified national database of businesses for a fast-growing marketing company.

You'll research online, find decision-makers, and record accurate company details in our system.

What you'll do

• Search Google, LinkedIn, Instagram and business directories for new prospects.
• Capture company name, contact person, phone, email and social link.
• Keep data clean and avoid duplicates.
• Work quickly but accurately to hit daily verified-lead targets.

What you need

• Strong computer and internet skills (Excel or CRM experience a plus).
• Sharp attention to detail and focus.
• Fluent English and good typing speed.
• Available to work full-time in Randburg for 6 weeks.

Contract details

• Fixed 6-week contract · Immediate start · Ends 16 Dec 2025
• Weekly pay + bonus for verified leads
• Possible renewal in January for top performers

Confidentiality

All client and lead information collected is the exclusive property of the company and may not be copied or shared.

Contract details

• Fixed 6-week contract Immediate start Ends 16 Dec 2025
• Weekly pay + bonus for verified leads
• Possible renewal in January for top performers

Confidentiality

All client and lead information collected is the exclusive property of the company and may not be copied or shared.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: R1 800,00 - R2 000,00 per week

Work Location: In person

Research, Development, and Innovation

• Identifies adaptive or new research needs
• Conduct independent and specialize research
• Disseminates research results by presenting oral and poster contributions.
• Conducts or participate in impact assessment studies

Project Management & Coordination

• Research conceptualization, initiation and planning

• Identifies the need resources (Equipment and Research Materials of international standards), manages and ensures optimal utilization to enhance impact

• Identifies the need for Human Resources in project(s), Strategically and operationally plan and manages the allocated resources

• Identifies long-term budget requirements and is accountable for compiling, monitoring and managing Project Finances
• Identifies Risks and Mitigation plans
• Reporting on progress of project milestones of the research team and compiling of project management reports

Research Collaboration

• Identifies and pursue strategic research collaboration Intra-, Inter-Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships

Human Capacity Building

• Managing the development of capacity and skills within the research team at an appropriate level within or outside the realm of projects and developing an appropriate transformation and succession plan for each research team.

• Identifies and participates in own learning opportunities

• A PhD or DSc in Animal Science, specializing in Animal Breeding and Genetics

• At least 5 years post PhD experience or 5 years proven relevant experience on the level
• Minimum 12 peer reviewed publications or number of publications, with a minimum (on Average) of two peer-reviewed publications per year.
• Proven record of accomplishment that expertise and scientific standing is acknowledged at national and moving towards international level.
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income for program and projects in program, a minimum of national projects and initiated participation in international projects.
• Proven record of accomplishment of research leadership as a researcher in the specialised field of expertise with extensive publication record.
• Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising other researchers and students development. Supervise or cosupervise at least 2* PhD and 2*MSc every 5 years with an emphasis on critical and scarce skills. Minimum 5 students graduated
• Proven track record of building national and international partnerships and networks
• Proven track record of strategic and operational planning skills and expertise.

• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage

• Proven track record of PhD and/or MSc student supervision in relevant fields of study.

• Must have a Driver's license Code 8 or 10.

CWP (Content With Purpose) is seeking a highly organised person with initiative to work with us as a freelance researcher in our sales team.

Responsibilities will include:

• Researching a variety of industries and sectors
• Looking for suitable organisations and contacts to feature as 'Content Partners' in our digital series
• Utilising LinkedIn, Excel, a CRM system and other online resources to track and monitor outreach.

About CWP

We are strategists, creatives, producers, filmmakers and marketers dedicated to uncovering, creating, and sharing stories of optimism around the world's greatest challenges. Our stories inspire action, cultivate hope, and pave the way for a future where every individual and organisation recognises their potential to contribute to a better society and a healthier planet.

About the role - Freelance researcher

Key responsibilities:

• Thorough industry analysis to identify key opportunities in a variety of focus sectors, helping to shape storylines
• In-depth research activity to map out potential partners and contributors for each series, spanning a range of organisations
• Use online sources such as company websites and LinkedIn to identify appropriate contacts
• Update and maintain our CRM platform and internal tracking documents, with clear briefing notes and strong attention to detail
• Draft highly targeted and personalised outreach communications for prospects - for use on email and LinkedIn
• Prepare bespoke presentations for each pitch opportunity
• Attend weekly sales meetings to ensure targets are on track, and identify new opportunities
• General administrative project support

Skills, and interests:

Skills:

• Ability to digest, process and condense complex information into a clear, articulate analysis / brief
• Excellent writing skills and email communication - spelling, punctuation, grammar, accuracy, attention to detail. Conveying clear, concise messages with the right tone
• Strong time management to meet deadlines, organisation and ability to juggle several projects
• Self-motivated, ambitious, target-driven
• CRM management
• Proficient in Excel
• Team player
• Proactive, positive, enthusiastic.
• Ability, and experience, using AI, specifically ChatGPT

Experience:

• Minimum of 12+ months' experience in a commercial/sales and/or research role. We're open to the type of experience a candidate has, however this must include excellent written communication, and the ability to research and understand complex topics. This role could suit someone with either an academic or commercial background.

Interests:

• A thirst for knowledge
• Making a positive difference in the world.

Position Details

A November start date would be ideal, and the role would involve working 8 hours a day, 5 days a week on average, although some weeks there may be less hours available to work depending on workflow. But we'd aim to communicate any changes to schedule in advance to you.

The role is fully remote and the pay rate is fixed at £10 GBP per hour (£80 GBP per day based on an 8 hour day).

Please note: CWP is committed to applying its equal opportunities policy at all stages of recruitment and selection. Shortlisting, interviewing and selection will always be carried out without regard to gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age, pregnancy or maternity leave or trade union membership.

This is a short-term contract ideal for experienced researchers, data collectors, or call center agents with excellent communication and data-handling skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct telephonic, virtual, and/or in-person interviews with former learners.
• Record accurate data using Excel or Google Sheets trackers.
• Clean, verify, and organize collected data.
• Submit daily and weekly progress reports.
• Ensure ethical data handling and confidentiality at all times.
• Work closely with provincial supervisors to meet research targets

Minimum Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Research, Social Sciences, Statistics, Education, or related fields.
• Proven experience in data collection, tracer studies, surveys, or research projects.
• Strong computer literacy (MS Excel, Google Sheets, data capture tools).
• Excellent communication skills in English and at least one local language.
• Must have a laptop/computer, reliable internet, and mobile phone.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: From R7 000,00 per month

Work Location: Remote